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Magic Gets Boost With Latest NBA Moves, Says Analyst

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sahil Goswami | Last updated Jul 6, 2025 1:56 PM ET

NBA free agency has been full of wild moves with stars changing teams, surprising cuts and impactful signings. The Orlando Magic have been one of the early headliners during the NBA offseason shakeup.

While they didn’t go all-out after their Desmond Bane trade, the Magic’s calculated signings have earned them high praise. Bleacher Report handed them an A-minus, and for good reason.

The biggest win? Landing point guard Tyus Jones. The Magic badly needed a steady hand at the point, and Jones fits the bill perfectly. He averaged 10.3 points, 5.3 assists to just one turnover last season.

“We pegged the Orlando Magic as the best fit… this offense desperately needed his playmaking and three-point shooting,” wrote Bleacher Report.

Even better, they got him at a bargain $7 million, cheaper than his younger brother Tre’s $24M/3-year deal with the Bulls.

Jones isn’t expected to start, with Bane and Jalen Suggs locked in as the lead guards. But he’s a perfect sixth man, offering leadership and floor management. That’s huge for a team that ranked 26th in ball security last season.

Free agent guard Tyus Jones has agreed to a one-year, $7 million deal with the Orlando Magic, sources tell ESPN. Magic officials negotiated the deal with Jones' agent Kevin Bradbury of LIFT Sports Management, which gives Jones a key role for the East contenders. pic.twitter.com/oR6gTHDyPK
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025

The Magic also made a savvy move with Moe Wagner. After declining his $11 million option, they re-signed him for just $5 million saving cap space while keeping key depth. Wagner, who’s recovering from an ACL tear, is targeting the season opener for his return.

- Traded for an elite three point shooter in Desmond Bane
- Signed a playmaking point guard that can also shoot from three in Tyus Jones
- Drafted Jase Richardson and Noah Penda
- Re-signed Moe Wagner to a team friendly deal

The Magic are having a great offseason pic.twitter.com/dT8hZSls2I
— Kenny Morales (@KennyMoralesTV) July 4, 2025

Sure, they lost Gary Harris, but the new additions bring balance. With 14 players under contract, Orlando is staying below the first tax apron and is quietly building one of the deepest, most well-rounded squads in the East. Don’t be surprised if this team makes serious noise come next spring.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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